**China's Rare Earth Magnet Exports to US Decline as Europe Sees Rise** China's exports of rare earth permanent magnets to the United States have fallen for the seventh consecutive month, according to data released by China's General Administration of Customs. The shipments totalled 994 tonnes in January and February, a decline of nearly 22.5 per cent compared to the same period last year. This trend comes as Washington and its allies are increasing efforts to reduce reliance on China's critical mineral supply chains. The data shows that the US is now China's third-largest buyer of rare earth magnets, accounting for 9.2 per cent of total exports over the two months. Germany and South Korea remained the top two buyers, with the US falling behind in the rankings. The decline in magnet exports to the US is a significant development, given the country's efforts to diversify its supply chains and reduce dependence on China. In contrast, exports of rare earth magnets to the European Union (EU) continued their upward trend, reaching 4,775 tonnes in the first two months of 2026. This represents a year-on-year increase of 28.4 per cent and raises the EU's share of China's magnet exports to 44.4 per cent. The EU's growing demand for rare earth magnets is a notable shift, as it seeks to reduce its reliance on China's supply chains. It's worth noting that the Chinese New Year's dates change every year, which can distort trade data. As a result, Beijing typically combines January and February trade data to limit distortions. The recent figures provide a clearer picture of the trend in China's rare earth magnet exports, highlighting the decline in shipments to the US and the rise in demand from the EU.